Maybe things went so well on Valentine’s Day that you’re taking the big step to get engaged! Congratulations!

The first expense right out the gate is her engagement ring. The old rule of thumb was that a guy should spend an amount equal to 2-3 months of his salary. That seems pretty excessive.

Many couples these days choose to buy a tasteful but smaller diamond and then save up to buy the big one for the 5th anniversary. I like that idea of pulling together and thinking long-term!

You better shop around

It goes without saying that you should price shop for your diamond. First, learn about the 4 C’s (cut, clarity, color, and carat). Then add a 5th C: cost. You don’t necessarily have to pay the sticker price, so compare comparable rings and stones online and at multiple stores and be prepared to negotiate. That’s not exactly the way they show it in jewelry store commercials, but this is real life! Read more…

Business is personal. And it impacts nearly every aspect of our daily lives. From keeping a household budget to planning for retirement, to getting (and keeping) a job or just putting up with annoying guy in the next cubicle — we've got a lot on our minds, and Personal Interest wants to help you sort it all out. We're bringing together the Denver Post $mart Editor with variety of experts from the local business community. We've asked them to offer tips, advice and general observations aimed at making the business of everyday life a bit easier to manager. Note: The bloggers were selected for their expertise, but their opinions are solely their own. While many operate their own businesses or consulting firms, we are not endorsing or advocating their businesses.